Industrialists and academics at the University of Bolton have come together to train the next generation of engineers needed for the aerospace and transport sectors.
Composite materials are a key element of the aerospace industry today, but they are also used in cars, bicycles and sports equipment – from tennis racquets to skis.
However, their design and manufacture need very different skills to those used for working with metal, the skill-set which has traditionally dominated engineering training.
Working with the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) and the University of Manchester, a continuing professional development (CPD) course has been developed.
In March the first six students, who are all engineering graduates working within North West companies, began their studies. The course can lead to an MSc in Advanced Composite Design or students can select individual units which meet their CPD needs.
As most of the students are working, much of the learning is online with a weekly Friday afternoon session on campus where theory can be put into practice.
Said Peter Myler, Professor of Engineering Analysis and Design: 'Rather than attending formal lectures the students will be working in teams, on their own composite material designs, in a purpose-built laboratory.'
If the pilot programme is successful there are plans to recruit a larger cohort in the autumn.